A Hidden Gem of an Apartment in the City Centre of Amsterdam

Anyone who has ever lusted after the open-plan spaciousness of an old industrial building will love this apartment in Amsterdam. From the canal side there is just a big double garage door that marks the entrance to a building that dates back to the beginning of the 17th Century. Entering through the garage you come to a ‘sitting pit’ with a home cinema. Loving it so far? The apartment is mostly built in the former courtyard without any windows, but it has been designed by Standard Studio with a new inner courtyard to bring in the daylight and provide outdoor space. All of the rooms look out on to this light-well and extra big roof-lights also provide more daylight. The result is a light, bright apartment that is very private even though it’s situated in the city centre. The best of both worlds.

The Design Details

Roof-lights that flood the open-plan space with light just where it’s needed. Especially over the kitchen island.

Structural supports that have been cleverly incorporated into the design providing a sense of separation between the kitchen, dining, and living spaces. Painting them black to match the window frames, doors and kitchen cabinets makes them look even more cohesive.

The polished concrete floor throughout is not only practical but looks stunningly beautiful.

The large kitchen island incorporates the hob so that the cook does not have her back to her guests. It also incorporates a wooden chopping board.

The marble of the worktop has been continued up the wall finishing in a decorative shelf. This is an ideal place to put well-used items or decorative pieces without the kitchen becoming overly fussy. Without it the entire look would possibly be too clinical.

I love the symmetry of the kitchen cabinets, sink and even that black enclosed pipework. But then, I am a symmetry nut.

The chunky wooden dining table is in complete proportion to the vastness of the space. A regular table would look insignificant and lost.

Layered rugs delineate the sitting area and provide a softness underfoot.

Open shelving separates the living space from the office space without cutting it off completely or interrupting the flow of light.

The inner courtyard is visible from all of the main rooms, not only allowing light to flow in, but also fresh air.

A giant potted bamboo in the courtyard provides greenery and also connects it to the trees outside.

Soft rugs break up the expanse of concrete where they are needed.

The privacy is so complete, that even the bath could be placed in front of the windows.

The courtyard has been kept deliberately plain with just one plant and some rattan chairs. More would look untidy from inside.

November 19, 2018

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2 Comments

Sophie

May 11, 2018

This is what dreams are made of. What I wouldn’t GIVE for even my kitchen to look this good. It looks really homely and comfortable and trendy at the same time. Mt dream kitchen would be open plan, island in the centre. We are planning, but saving takes so long. We’ve a baby on the way too, so we’re saving even less than usual. You mention clincial, I love that sort of look. Keeps it uncluttered and clean looking. But you’re totally right about the marble shelving. Completes the kitchen!

I’d love to visit Amsterdam. Such a beautiful place (so I’ve seen in the photos)